About Us

Wilshire Boulevard Temple is a congregation that honors the ancient traditions of Judaism in a thoroughly modern context. A welcoming and inclusive community that values tradition, innovation, community service, and Jewish education.

Prayer

Prayer is at the core of Jewish life. As a reform-centered congregation, Wilshire Boulevard Temple blends tradition, innovation, spirituality and education to draw members to a deeper love of Torah, God, Israel, and the social justice concept of Tikkun Olam.

Life Cycle

Our years are gifts, all to be appreciated and never to be taken for granted. Along the way are special moments that we as Jews honor with proper celebration, reverence, and solemnity. We provide all the necessary guidance and support to honor these special milestones of our lives.

Programs

We have a full array of programs that add to the richness and celebration of Judaism: Special events, programs for women, programs for men, programs for students, B’nei Mitzvah study, community groups, cultural events, readings and so much more.

Volunteer

It is the duty of every Jew to seek justice, much of it through the tradition of Tikkun Olam, repair the world. Wilshire Boulevard Temple provides a wide variety of ways to engage through voluntary programs that serve the Los Angeles community and beyond.

Schools and Camps

Education is at the core of being Jewish. Please click on the Early Childhood Center, Brawerman Elementary schools, Religious School, or Camp names to visit their websites and learn more about the best in a Jewish-based education that helps mold the essence of a fulfilled and fulfilling Jewish life.

Read the Latest Temple Bulletin

A 21st Century Path to Judaism

Wilshire Boulevard Temple welcomes individuals who choose a deeper connection to Judaism through conversion and offers several pathways.

Why don't more people choose Judaism? One reason is that we make it too difficult.

Becoming a Jew often involves a year-long drawn out course of study. It’s a commitment fewer people are able to make in our busy 21st Century lives. When I am asked, “Rabbi, why does it take a year?” the truth is that I have never had a good answer and have always felt there must be a better way.

Finally, there is.

Choosing Judaism is a free, innovative program leading to conversion that was introduced with great success in the Spring of 2018. Inspired by the personal journeys of people choosing to become Jews and determined find a way to align the conversion process with busy 21st Century lives, Rabbi Shapiro with Wilshire Boulevard Temple clergy developed Choosing Judaism, an 8-Week Immersive Journey to Becoming a Jew.

The first session demonstrated a rigorous program that intensifies learning, meaning, and engagement as we welcome participants into the family of Jewish people.

I’m always inspired when I accompany someone to the mikveh who is choosing to become a Jew. It’s always different but always beautiful. Each time I watch someone becoming a Jew, I wonder why more people who have shown interest don’t do the same. - Rabbi Shapiro

Here is what some members of the first group had to say...

I decided to participate in Wilshire Boulevard’s choosing Judaism program because I loved Rabbi Shapiro’s welcoming, inclusive approach to Judaism. Likewise, the program not only taught us the foundations of Judaism, but allowed us to enjoy a taste of the Jewish life. The program will enable you to determine whether this path is for you. Either way, everyone at Wilshire Boulevard Temple will honor your choice. I loved the course and thank everyone to Wilshire Boulevard Temple for opening the door to my new life as a Jew. - Robert Phelps

I gained so much from our classes, group discussions, and retreat weekend... I have always felt a part of the community at Wilshire so it really took me by surprise. I feel home in a way I have never felt before. Thank you Wilshire Boulevard Temple and especially Rabbi Beau Shapiro for providing such a warm and welcoming conversion program. You are forever in my heart. - Maggie Maier

The amount of care, passion, and support Rabbi Shapiro and Temple staff put into Choosing Judaism is amazing. I’m so excited to join the community, as everyone I’ve met has welcomed me with open arms. And where I’m from, hospitality and kindness feel like home. - Jennifer Winberg Cartwright